Bulldozer's birthday is this month. I can't believe he's turning 9 years old. It seems like just yesterday he was being put in my arms for the first time. Our tradition of making wish lists continues this year with these gift ideas for boys. Bulldozer is more excited than ever about his wish list. He sat down with me and picked out every item.

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Gift Ideas for Boys

When Bulldozer was little he was obsessed with cars. Over the past three months it appears the obsession has returned. I admit I'm kind of excited. There are so many fun car related things for nine year old boys! And you never know if the obsession continues, we may have a future mechanic on our hands.

Bulldozer loves superheroes and has for a very long time. His biggest concern right now is that he doesn't have ALL of the Marvel movies that he loves so much. His brother and him take turns picking a movie to unwind with each night before bed. The movies below are ones he's already seen and loves. He just doesn't own them yet.

At our new home we spend at least three hours a day outside. Bulldozer has noticed that we're a little short on sports equipment that he likes, especially when it comes to playing sports games as a family every night after dinner. The items below are the basics he's requesting.

Second to Star Wars, LEGO Nexo Knights are Bulldozer's favorite thing. I personally don't know much about them, but it's all he talks about. From what I understand you collect shields. Each shield has a different power. The more powers you have, the more you'll be able to play the LEGO Nexo Kights video game, which is what he loves more than anything.

When it came to making his wish list Bulldozer did a search for every LEGO Nexo Knight item that includes a power he doesn't have. Not only does he love all of the items, but he can't wait to get his hands on these new shields.

The list is divided into two sections. The first list is items over $10. Below is another list of items that are under $10. Some of them seriously cost under $4. So if you're trying to round out gifts, don't hesitate to throw something small in there.

*There is no limit to how many of these are purchased as they are mystery bags.

Now before we go any further with the next section of Bulldozer's wish list I need to explain a few things. Jason and I are not gun people. We've never owned a gun. Neither of us has a desire to own one. Both of us believe that guns can be useful when hunting for food, but for any other purpose, we are not supporters of them.

Bulldozer and his brother on the other hand, are obsessed with weapons. They've shown interest in weapons for quite some time now. We've had nerf guns, water guns, and LEGO guns, but it's definitely not the same as owning a "real" gun.

Jason and I are very big on letting our children make their own decisions in regards to their beliefs and values. When it comes to guns, we're no different. Both of us agree, if they have an interest in guns, we'd rather teach them how to use them responsibly than not. And when not in use, the weapons will be kept under lock and key.

Now that we've gotten that out of the way, I'd like to present to you Bulldozer's Outdoor Adventure section of his wish list. With so much land to roam and have fun with, and a barn that will be turned into the boys' own hang out very soon, there's plenty of room for them to use these items.

If you have a boy in your life with a birthday, special occasion, or holiday coming up, perhaps some of these gift ideas will work for him? We know that Bulldozer's grandparents, aunts and cousins love these lists as it makes shopping for him so much easier.

And if you don't find anything on this list, perhaps check out Bulldozer's wish list from last year and the year before.

Too often I see a question about how to incorporate music and Montessori as if they are two things that don't work together. Today I'd like to show just how compatible music and Montessori are and provide you with 6 tips when teaching music in a Montessori classroom. If you aren't combining the two, you are missing out on so much learning!

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It is very rare to find a child who does not respond positively to music in some way. Most children love rhythm, melody, and so many aspects of music, especially when combined with movement. Music is a language that all can understand no matter levels of education, language, race, ethnicity, or background. It speaks to our hearts and minds in ways that other types of communication can not.

Yes, I'm biased. Music has been a very big part of my life. Before my children were born and we started our Montessori journey, it was my career. I graduated from college as a music major with an emphasis in voice. Since high school I have taught piano and voice lessons to people of all ages. As my children have grown it has been a major part of our daily lives.

I sincerely don't know what our lives would be like without music. It is a huge part of my children's Montessori education in so many different ways. Here are my best tips when teaching music in a Montessori Classroom

6 Tips When Teaching Music in a Montessori Classroom

1. Follow the child when studying musical concepts.

When considering the combination of music and Montessori it's important to identify a focus. Music is a very broad term and includes so many different skills. As you observe your child consider what aspects of music he likes best and start there. If you have not introduced all aspects of music, trial and error is the best way to go, knowing that some materials and activities may not be used.

Consider the following topics:

Theory/Composition

Composers

Conducting

Vocal Instruction

Music History

Orchestra

Band

Opera

Musicals

Playing an Instrument

Voice

The options are limitless as all of the suggestions above can be broken down even further. Dinomite is obsessed with musicals and conducting right now. Bulldozer is obsessed with modern day composers who write film scores. Princess is trying out her voice singing anywhere she can. Sunshine loves instruments and dance. She's also very good at "Name that Tune."

2. Incorporate music into other subject areas.

If a child loves music, it is quite easy to incorporate musical ideas into the learning of subjects such as language, math, science, history, etc. Whether you use an instrument to help with the counting of numbers or syllables, or use songs to teach concepts in science and history, a child with a passion for music will respond in positive ways.

Bulldozer struggles with auditory processing issues. When I teach new concepts he often struggles. However, if I put concepts to music with visuals, he catches on quicker than anyone else. When I'm introducing new concepts, I always try to find a song that will go along with what he's learning. All of our children learned a song for every number 2-9 when skip counting. To this day they sing the songs every time they need them.

3. Use music to introduce lessons and topics in the classroom.

Dinomite is obsessed with the clean version of the musical Hamilton right now and has been for some time. This has lead to an interest in American History, the study of past Presidents of the United States of America, a specific interest in the constitution and the desire to visit our nation's capital.

Before Hamilton he couldn't get enough of Newsies. The musical inspired our study of the printing press, writing newspaper articles etc. You can see all we did in the post: Learning Activities Inspired by Newsies the Musical. Had I introduced the history of the printing press and writing newspaper articles without the musical, he would have shown no interest.

If you notice your child shows an interest in a piece of music, use the music as inspiration for learning. It can make a world of difference and help the child remember the material and experience in ways that are otherwise not possible.

If you're struggling to come up with your own ideas know that all of my Montessori-inspired Unit Syllabuses include two music activities with links to free printables if needed.

5. Embrace the study of music in the classroom knowing that the child will develop skills necessary in other subject areas.

At times we come across a child who is only interested in music, and will do nothing else. When this happens we can choose to follow the child. Focusing academic studies on musical concepts does not mean all is lost in other subject areas. Music is language. It is math. History can be taught through music. The science of sound and how it's evolved is fascinating.

Do not underestimate the power of music. If you still find yourself struggling to come up with ideas the blogs below are fabulous resources!

6. Introduce the Montessori Music Curriculum

For those who are unaware, there is a Montessori music curriculum. It focuses on the use of bells and tone bars. The materials are very pricey but can be very beneficial for a child who responds well to music. You can purchase the Montessori Music Album with all of the curriculum at Garden of Francis.

There are also many DIY ideas out there for those who can not afford the actual materials. Here are my favorites!

There should never be any reason to hesitate incorporating Montessori and music. The two go hand in hand, especially when you are being led by Maria Montessori's principle of "following the child." I can't imagine what our classroom would be without music. It is essential to creating an environment of peace and order.

It is rare to meet a child who doesn't love music in some form. Music can be a fabulous way to engage children and help them learn. Instruments are the perfect at keeping little hands busy and focused, whether accompanying a song or learning how to count.

So much can be taught and learned when musical instruments are included in a Montessori environment. They provide such an amazing sensory experience. The hard part is deciding what musical instruments are appropriate for a Montessori setting. Today I'm sharing my recommendations for the best musical instruments to use in a Montessori classroom.

All instruments are made from natural materials. They are child sized for little hands. Most are played using hands instead of the mouth to minimize the spreading of germs. (I usually remove an instruments played with the mouth, even when they come in sets.) Lastly, they're proven to withstand the test of time.

If you're on a limited budget and don't know where to start, these musical instrument sets are the perfect way to go. All are small and easy to store. The handbells can be a great way to introduce the Montessori music curriculum. All other sets are made of solid wood and absolutely beautiful!

My children are blessed with a grandfather who's known as the "Music Man" of our town. He collects musical instruments of all kinds. Whether we're visiting his home or he comes to ours, the kiddos have so much fun playing instruments he's collected. These instruments are our favorites and small enough for any little hands to enjoy.Hape Happy Harp Kids' Wooden Musical Instrument

Just in case you don't have enough musical instruments to choose from already, here are some more! These instruments I've found to be particularly wonderful to have on hand, whether we're studying a continent or a special needs kiddo needs extra support through a lesson where musical instruments would be appropriate and beneficial.

If you have not invested in musical instruments for your Montessori classroom, I highly recommend it. Children love them, especially when movement is incorporated into their use. I know our kiddos' education would not be the same without them.

Our family has used the Montessori approach to homeschooling for over six years. We discovered it after stumbling upon a Montessori website in search for ideas on how to reach our children after an experience with a private special needs school that failed.

We've never turned back!

Now, not only do we educate using this method, but base our entire home and lifestyle around it.

When it comes to sharing my best tips and advice about anything, the first thing that comes to mind are those focused around the Montessori Method. It has changed our lives for the better in so many ways. Here are the best Montessori tips for families with special needs.

But first an introduction.

History of Montessori Method and Special Needs

The Montessori Method is a way in which children can be educated, designed by Dr. Maria Montessori (1870-1952). Dr. Montessori was first and foremost an Italian physician who began working with children in an asylum. Most intrigued by her own observations she began to study and research ways to reach the children with varying needs and disabilities.

Her discoveries, combined with the research of many before her led to the design and implementation of lessons and materials that the children in the asylum reacted positively to. They responded so well to her method that they were able to score the same or above their typical peers on standardized tests.

After leaving the asylum Dr. Montessori pursued more education and then once again worked with children with varying needs, this time those living in the slums of society. Her method was unbelievably successful and further developed.

From that point on she continued with her method working with typical children, leading to significant advances in the way children are educated. Her methods remain well known in Europe but were mostly forgotten in the United States after World War II.

I find it odd that Maria Montessori's work is so often tossed aside today when it comes to educating children with special needs. Instead Montessori schools are often thought of as places for the rich and well educated, due to high costs for admission. If only more families with special needs could learn about her work and apply it in today's society!

The Montessori Method and lifestyle have completely changed how we view and live our lives. Our children are happier, healthier, and so in love with learning. They are active participating members of our family who contribute in all aspects of household tasks and responsibilities.

We have tried therapies, behavioral techniques and so much more with little to no luck. Yet when we introduced the Montessori Method the kiddos couldn't get enough of it. The approach, materials, work, and lifestyle are exactly what they needed.

As we've continued our journey with Montessori over the years we've realized there are tips we wish all families with special needs could learn and apply. I share them with you today.

The Best Montessori Tips for Families with Special Needs

1. Follow the Child

Dr. Maria Montessori was adamant about observing the child and following their interests. This was the case in both home and classroom environments. Montessori settings are designed to allow the child to pick their own work and activities at all times.

As we have followed this advice with our own special needs children, they have progressed further than we ever anticipated. Those times when we've tried to go against this Montessori approach we have been met with behaviors and regression. Following the child has taught me that when a child is ready, they can do anything, but if they're not, no matter how hard you push, progress won't happen.

Through this principle we've also learned that it's okay to go along with our children's obsessions and self-stimulating behaviors. It's only once a child feels safe and regulated that they are ready to learn and grow.

2. Encourage Independence

In today's culture children are brought up in an adult world where everything is out of reach and/or impossible to accomplish without help. We worry about things being broken or children getting hurt. Child proofing is all the rage. Parents of children with special needs often take even more precautions to make sure everyone stays safe.

In a Montessori environment children are encouraged to be independent in as many ways as possible. Child sized furniture, materials, and tools are highly recommended. Children are taught practical life skills using sharp objects and glass containers at a very young age.

One might think this is a recipe for disaster but as children are taught to use materials appropriately, at such a young age, they begin to show pride and respect for their things and surroundings. They feel special. It's a privilege to be trusted with such responsibility. As they work, they become more independent gaining self confidence and pride in who they are.

A child with special needs benefits even more as they're able to advance with fine and gross motor skills in ways that would otherwise not be possible. Every aspect in life where they can become more independent is of benefit to both the parent and the child.

Our children love the independence that Montessori has brought to our lives. They are able to help with so many household tasks. Child size tools make the jobs easy and fun. Keeping items within their reach at home is so beneficial as they can independently accomplish all tasks desired.

And for those worried about safety issues, I can assure you if a child feels safe and is regulated, they are able to handle the responsibility that a Montessori environment brings. Our youngest child often rages, throwing and destroying things, but she always leaves her Montessori materials and items throughout the house alone.

3. Encourage Movement

When Dr. Maria Montessori worked with children, she learned very quickly that one of the worst things a teacher or parent could require of a child, is to have them sit still for long periods of time. In Montessori environments children are encouraged to get up and walk around. They transfer their work from shelves to their work space. Work spaces may be at a table, on the floor, or anywhere else where a child feels comfortable.

Dr. Maria Montessori developed a curriculum that included movement. She encouraged significant time be spent outside in nature. Work tasks in and outside of the home are part of the Practical Life curriculum (similar to occupational therapy and physical therapy). These help children to develop coordination along with fine and gross motor skills, while at the same time helping the child stay regulated.

Words can't express how much movement has helped our children throughout the day and while learning. They have no need for breaks, because they are able to keep their bodies regulated. Our children spend an average of about three hours a day outside running, jumping, and playing, half of which occurs before our learning for the day begins. They sleep so well when they are constantly moving throughout the day.

I am so in love with the Montessori philosophy. Second to my belief in God, my Eternal Father, Jesus Christ, His Son, and the Holy Ghost, I have never believed in anything more strongly.

Dr. Maria Montessori put so much work and effort into understanding how children with special needs learn and function at their best. When we apply these principles in the classroom and at home, the results are amazing. I can not begin to compare when it comes to modern day interventions and philosophies.

If you are not familiar with Dr. Maria Montessori's work and philosophy and have children with special needs, I highly recommend looking into it. It has changed our lives.

If you enjoyed this post, you may also enjoy the posts and pages below.

If you'd like to learn more about Montessori and special needs these are great resources!
This post is part of the Parenting Children with Special Needs Series. If you'd like to read more advice and best tips from experienced parents, check out the posts below!

We've been in our new home for almost three weeks now without furniture, shelving, or storage pieces (with the exception of bins and boxes).

I'll be honest. It's been a wee bit of a challenge for me. I like a clean and orderly home with everything in its place. Our situation has me pondering a lot about Montessori and what it means.

I've come to realize there is so much more to Montessori than shelves and materials.

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In our current home, I don't have shelves. I don't have a place to set out learning activities. Heck, I don't even have a table. Until we close on our house in NY there is no way to purchase these items.

I started to become discouraged because it appeared that using the Montessori Method wasn't possible right now. If I didn't have shelves, a table, or printed activities, I just couldn't pull it off.

Thankfully my feelings of despair only lasted a few minutes before I realized that these feelings were the most foolish ones I'd had in a long time.

Montessori is not just about kid sized furniture and shelving units. It's not just about specific materials or even printed activities. Yes these things are good, but if that's all we do, we're missing the point.

Montessori is a state of mind.

It's a philosophy.

It's a way of life.

Just because I don't have beautiful shelves arranged with activities, or a table for my children to work at, doesn't mean that all is lost. There are so many other aspects of Montessori that are 100% doable in our present circumstances.

And so, over the past week, I've made it my mission to focus on different aspects of Montessori that I CAN do as much as possible.

It's interesting. Without the preparation of activities and classroom work that is usually part of my daily routine, I find it so much easier to focus on other parts of Dr. Maria Montessori's method, some of which are far more important.

Perhaps being without furniture and shelves is a hidden blessing in disguise?

Here's what I've been focusing on.

Observation

Have you ever stepped back and just observed your child?

How does she play?

What is she drawn to?

What interests does she have?

How does she problem solve?

What does she want to learn?

How does her body move?

Does she like to stay still?

Is she a helper?

Does she like things orderly and clean?

How does she respond to various types of sensory stimuli?

What does she talk about?

Since we've moved and I'm not as focused on "getting things done," I've had the time to sit and observe each of my children. I've taken a step back and listened to their questions. This is not to say that I didn't observe my children before, but this time has been different. There are no distractions.

Observation is one of the most important aspects of the Montessori Method. It is the way we learn to follow the child. Without observation, we can not be an effective Montessori teacher or parent.

As we observe and follow, it is amazing how much we're able to help our children learn. Observation doesn't require shelves and materials. It can occur every day in our natural environment if we allow time for it.

Observation this past week has taught me what my children can and can't do on their own in our new environment. It has taught me when I have to supervise and when I can leave my children to fend for themselves. In some cases, I observed that our environment needed the smallest tweak in order to allow for complete independence.

Work

As I observed my children over the past week or so, I've learned that they really do enjoy work opposed to free play. They desire tasks with a purpose. If the task involves physical activity, that's even better.

Due to these observations I have provided more opportunities for my children to do work. They have torn down trees, collected firewood, picked fruit, prepared meals and so much more!

It's always best to have child size tools to accomplish work tasks, but if you don't, not all is lost. There are so many projects at home or outside that don't require special materials. Don't hesitate to involve your children in day to day "work" tasks. These tasks not only teach them necessary life skills but lead to a path of independence and self satisfaction that can otherwise not be attained.

Independence

So often it is much easier to do something for our children than to wait patiently for them to do it themselves. But when given independence to learn and accomplish tasks on their own, children flourish.

Independence does not require the purchase of shelves or Montessori materials.

It can be as simple as rearranging items so that they are in reach.

It can mean teaching rules and boundaries in order to give more freedom in an environment.

It can also mean sitting back to observe and follow, rather than giving orders.

Through independence children can develop confidence in their abilities to function in the environment around them. They learn to have respect for themselves and their surroundings.

At our house in New York the children had to be supervised when outside due to the circumstances of our neighborhood. We had a very small backyard. Playing in the front yard wasn't an option. At our new home in Virginia there is wide open space for the children to roam free in the front, back and sides of the house where I don't have to keep as close of an eye on them.

I won't lie, we have gone through more band-aids and bandages in two weeks than we did during an entire year at our home in NY. I have never seen so many bumps and bruises on my children. There have been other fun adventures as well. But the more independence I'm able to give them, the more they are thriving. They're also realizing it's not a big deal to have a scrape or a bruise, which is so nice!

Natural Learning

Too often we think that Montessori means activities placed on trays, and beautifully arranged on shelves. But this concept is only a small piece of what Dr. Maria Montessori taught. Learning occurs everywhere, not just in a classroom or a Montessori space created in the home.

The earth is an absolutely amazing place to live, filled with such beauty and awe. Let us remember to enjoy all that it has to offer. Go outside. If that's not possible, focus on day to day tasks in the home, or even simple conversations related to questions our children have.

Natural learning situations require no preparation. They just happen.

This week while outside, we've discussed the sounds cicadas make. We've watched a spider and beetle go head to head. Sunshine has learned the ins and outs of picking peaches. Princess experienced first hand how wineberries taste if you pick them too soon, and then learned exactly how to tell when they're perfectly ripe and ready to eat.

Indoors the girls decided to line up the shoes in the front entryway from biggest to smallest. Sunshine asked if she could help make her lunch. Both girls learned how to mop hardwood floors. The boys studied paper wasps from their bedroom window. There are always natural learning experiences to be had.

Teacher/Parent Transformation

It's so easy to want to dive into the Montessori Method head first and race to implement it perfectly. Unfortunately this is a very unrealistic goal. In order for Montessori to truly become a part of us, a transformation has to occur. The transformation that I speak of is not one children go through. It's a transformation of the parent and/or teacher.

This does not happen as trays with activities are arranged on a shelf. It doesn't occur when setting up a Montessori environment. Transformation occurs as we come to understand Maria Montessori's philosophy and truly embrace her vision.

How can we do this? It is impractical for everyone to become Montessori certified. Instead we can begin with reading books written by Dr. Maria Montessori. If you're looking for a place to start, select one of the books below. They're absolutely fabulous!

I try to read from one of Maria Montessori's books on a daily basis. It helps keep me in the right mind frame. Not a day goes by that I don't learn something new. Dr. Maria Montessori's work is truly inspiring!

If you don't have child sized furniture, shelving, or Montessori Materials, please don't despair. There is more to Montessori! Focus on observing your children. Identify work that children can help with without the purchase of child-sized tools. Encourage independence. Allow time and focus for natural learning experiences. Give yourself time to transform as you dive into Maria Montessori's life work.

Life has been just a tad different since we've moved to Virginia from New York. This has also caused some changes in holiday traditions. The 4th of July has always been a tricky holiday. Neither one of our girls enjoy fireworks. Crowds of people, a late night outside in the dark, and the scents of alcohol and smoke filling the air are huge triggers.

Our boys on the other hand love fireworks and everything that has to do with the 4th of July. Most often my husband Jason and I split up for the night, one taking the boys and one staying behind with the girls. But this year we found a way to celebrate that everyone could enjoy.

What did we do? We went to the local hot air balloon festival, bright and early in the morning to watch nine hot air balloons set up and take flight. It was an absolutely amazing experience that the kiddos will never forget, set up perfectly to accommodate everyone's special needs. Here are all of the details of our experience and 8 tips for attending ahot air balloon festival with special needs.

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8 Tips for Attending a Hot Air Balloon Festival with Special Needs

1. We chose to attend the event bright and early in the morning when there were less people around. The fewer people the less chaos and anxiety. Because the kiddos had just woken up, they were at their best, which is always nice.

2. Knowing there would be fire and loud noises from the hot air balloons, we made the decision to watch from a distance. This was a significant benefit to those with sensory issues and to those who don't like large crowds. Being away from crowds also made it possible for the kiddos to move around when needed, as the whole process from beginning to end took quite a long time.

3. We made sure to dress appropriately for the event bringing along extra sweatshirts and blankets just in case. Though most days here are around 90 degrees F, the mornings are still very cool. I wanted to make sure no one was uncomfortable. Everyone was wearing sneakers and brought along our handicap strollers. We knew we'd be out in a field and there would be a lot of walking.

4. I also remembered to bring bug spray. Insects are everywhere here in the Blue Ridge Mountains, morning noon and night. Ticks are also abundant. Knowing we'd be in a field, I didn't want to end up coming home with everyone eaten alive.

5. Lastly, I remembered to bring sound blocking headphones. If you're not familiar with hot air balloons, you may not know that they can be quite loud as they're filling and rising. Even at a distance you could hear the distinct sound. It was great to know that the headphones were there if Sunshine needed them.

Now I rocked the tips I've shared above, and then there were a few others I didn't do so well at that I thought I'd mention, so your first experience can be even more successful than ours.

6. Learn how hot air balloons work before you go and watch them set up and launch for the first time. The kiddos had so many questions, and though they were mesmerized, they wanted to know all of the ins and outs. This can be done through books, experiments, etc.

7. Bring lots of snacks and drinks along. There is a lot of waiting and standing around as hot air balloons set up and prepare to launch into the sky. We were there for two hours, which was much longer than I expected. Because it was so early in the morning and I wanted to be sure to provide incentives for good behaviors, I told the kiddos we would pick up a special breakfast afterwards. If I could do it again, I'd bring the breakfast with us.

8. Don't forget binoculars! Whether you're close to the action or farther away, seeing the details of each balloon and the set up process would be so much nicer with binoculars. Dinomite regretted not bringing his and commented on their value as we were watching.

Without the binoculars the kiddos still really enjoyed the entire morning. They loved watching the balloons fill with air. Each balloon was different in design and color. The only hiccup we had was when one balloon started to come close to us in the sky. It kind of freaked Sunshine out a bit, as she worried it would fall on top of us. Thankfully once it decided to go another way, she was much better.

The boys on the other hand enjoyed every single minute of the morning. They LOVED watching every step of the process and couldn't get over how magnificent the balloons looked both on the ground and in the air. I'm guessing we'll be doing this again next year!

After we watched all of the balloons take flight we headed to the store to pick up some yummy breakfast treats that everyone could enjoy.

Then we all took a nap.

It was the best 4th of July yet and the first one we've spent all together in a very long time.